Vacation Ideas & Things to Do

Best Aquariums in the United States

The United States is home to some of the best aquariums in the world, and they’ve become some of my favorite attractions for families, marine life lovers, and curious travelers.

Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

For me, Pennsylvania’s destinations are some of the best in the Northeast. The state’s sophisticated cities and great outdoor attractions beckon you to explore a huge variety of activities that will capture the imagination of young and old.

Best Places to Visit in September & Things to Do

For me, September isn’t just about where you go. It’s about the unique experiences, the favorite traditions, and the underrated destinations that make early fall such a magical time to explore.

Wildflowers in the Colorado mountains near Silverton

Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Colorado is best known for its first class ski resorts, where you can enjoy every type of snow sport imaginable, but there are equally exciting outdoor activities for all seasons.

Beaches on the Florida Gulf Coast

Florida offers several hundred miles of pristine beaches, all of which carry their own character and beauty. I think there’s something extra special about the beaches along the Gulf. They are absolutely some of my favorite places in the world to enjoy sun, sand, and sea.

I took these photos of New England beaches during my travels

Places to Visit in New England

From adventure, delicious food, or learning about history, New England has something to offer to everyone.

I took this photo of fall foliage on the lake in Vermont

Boating Lakes in the USA

The lakes on this list offer amazing boating opportunities, including fishing, diving and other watersports.

I took this photo of a meadow in the mountains in August

Best Places to Go in August & Things to Do

While the U.S. has no shortage of wonderful summer vacation destinations, some people may have their sights set on exploring distant shores, learning new cultures, and sampling new tastes.

I took this photo of the tree at Lincoln Center on our way to see the Nutcracker at the Met

Christmas Vacation Ideas & Places to Visit

Christmas vacation ideas include tropical beach resorts, quick weekend getaways, romantic escapes and family hotels.

I took this photo on a lake on our fall weekend trip to Manchester, VT.

Best Places to Visit in Vermont & Things to Do

When you think of New England, Vermont's fall colors, winter sports, and summer festivals come to mind.

We were out in a kayak on Maui in December when I snapped this photo of mom and baby whale

Places to Visit in December & Things to Do

December is a month packed with holidays, including Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Years, and for those who live in the northern hemisphere, thoughts on December typically include cooler weather and possibly snow.

Tent Camping Spots in the United States

The United States is packed with unique tent camping spots that have become some of my favorite outdoor memories. From rugged mountains to peaceful coastlines, this country has some of the best places to pitch a tent and reconnect with nature.

I took this photo of my husband and son on a Northeast beach in March. It was chilly but we had the place to ourselves.

Places to Travel in March & Things to Do

By the time March is on your doorstep, you will be longing for an escape to get away from the winter routine.

Gorgeous sunny summer day at Freeman Lake in Elizabethtown, KY

Best Places to Visit in Kentucky

Known for being the hub of horse racing, the state behind the iconic Kentucky Fried Chicken brand, and the heart of bluegrass America, Kentucky offers plenty of unique and memorable experiences for tourists.

I took these photos while snorkeling in Hawaii on our Valentine's Day getaway.

Valentine's Day Vacations

Plan a last minute Valentine's Day getaway to one of these beautiful hotels, resorts and inns.

Unique Vacations

The best vacations didn’t always come from big plans. They came from small moments, a winding road I hadn’t meant to take, a quiet garden tucked behind a museum, a local bakery that felt like it had been waiting for me. I remember thinking, “It’s not about doing everything. It’s about finding what feels like enough.”

What stayed with me were the in-between things: a bookstore on a rainy afternoon, a path that opened up into wildflowers, a dinner where the light hit just right and no one was in a hurry to leave. I’ve wandered through towns and trails, coastlines and cafés, and every trip reminded me that the best experiences don’t need noise—they just need space to be noticed.

Need Help Planning?

Whether you’re dreaming of long weekends, slow mornings, scenic drives, or simple joys in unexpected places, these vacation ideas and things to do were gathered slowly, meant to inspire without overwhelming, and to remind you that beauty often waits just off the main road.

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Let me help you plan your next authentic and truly unique getaway. I've been a travel professional for nearly 30 years. I've been featured on abc6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, USAToday, and many other media outlets, government and educational institutions. Click for more.